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Blanc backs Ibrahimovic to play crucial role in Chelsea tie

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's record in the UEFA Champions League knockout stages has been defended by Paris Saint-Germain coach Laurent Blanc.

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AFP

Written ByPeter Hanson

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Paris Saint-Germain coach Laurent Blanc is adamant that Zlatan
Ibrahimovic will not wilt in Wednesday's UEFA Champions League
last-16 second-leg tie at Chelsea.

The Sweden international has rightfully earned a reputation as
one of the most feared strikers in world football.

However, question marks have arisen at times over Ibrahimovic's
impact in key matches, with critics pointing to a poor goalscoring
record in the Champions League knockout stages.

But Blanc believes that the former Barcelona forward, who played
under the stewardship of Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho at Inter, has
the ability to score in any situation and stated he will be vital
at Stamford Bridge as PSG look to progress to the last eight with
the tie at 1-1.

"In terms of Ibrahimovic and his influence in knockout matches,
regardless of who plays centre-back for Chelsea whether it's Gary
Cahill or Kurt Zouma they will not envy facing him," Blanc
said.

"The good news for PSG is that Zlatan will play. He loves the
big occasion, he can score at any time, in any venue. He'll be
important for us."

PSG arguably edged the first leg at the Parc des Princes, with
Chelsea thankful to goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for making a number
of crucial saves.

"He [Courtois] was very good in the first leg," Blanc added. "If
I'm honest I say I hope he plays well [on Wednesday] because we
will have created chances.

"But I want him to play less well. The goalkeeper is why they
[Chelsea] go into the game as slight favourites.

"If he plays well again PSG will have proved they played better
than Chelsea."